Let’s accept it; we’ve all been fascinated by how chefs prepare their food! There’s something special in the way they add their unique touch to it. However, when considering being one in practical life, you might come across a plethora of problems.

Whether or not to move ahead with a career in the culinary arts is a crucial decision that will shape your future! Adding to the fact that choosing between pursuing a Culinary certificate or a degree is also crucial.

The answer to this specific question significantly influences the job you desire to get into. Of course, both options offer advantages, but if you want to work as a manager in the food service industry, you’ll need a higher level of education.

Let’s look at the primary difference between a culinary arts certificate and a culinary arts degree program.

Culinary arts certificate vs. culinary arts degree

Overview

There is a definite difference between the two when it comes to culinary arts certificates vs. degree programs. One focuses on a specific subject, while the other covers a wide range of topics related to eating. Most food-related certificate programs focus on a single topic—for example, cooking or wines - and teach you solely in that area.

Meanwhile, a culinary arts degree program broadens your understanding of business concepts, food costs, hospitality, pastry, wines, baking, and product creation, among other similar subjects.

Subject Area

Each culinary degree will cover similar skills, but the Culinary Arts Degree will further emphasize the importance of managerial skills and other career opportunities. On the other hand, both programs will provide you with a robust foundation in culinary and cooking skills.

The Culinary Arts degree will cover management abilities, business ethics, principles, market trends, and food expenditures. You will be asked to establish a unique menu, purchase the grocery, and oversee the kitchen.

The time span of the courses

This might differ for different students! The standard culinary arts certificate program may be completed in one or two semesters, but check each school’s website for specifics. It normally takes two years to acquire an associate degree in culinary arts.

A Culinary Degree Program, on the contrary, necessitates additional education. The typical duration of such a degree is 15 to 24 months (depending on the institution). It includes an in-depth level of studies, such as courses in marketing,  courses in hotel management, and other disciplines in the industry.

Scope post completion

Graduates of the culinary arts program have two options: seek employment in the industry or continue moving to a degree program. Some individuals working in the field choose to add a culinary qualification to their resumes to advance their careers.

On the contrary, doing a degree in Culinary Arts opens you avenues like:

1. They can pursue further education, like a master’s or bachelor’s degree, allowing them to transfer straight into the CIA’s bachelor’s programs.

2. A more comprehensive range of educational opportunities, including real-world experience, internships in on-campus public eateries, and a lively liberal arts program.

3. Employing organizations recognize that graduates have a more extensive knowledge base and more significant expertise; therefore, they have more job options.

Adding to it, the presence of a college like JIHM on your degree improves your chances of better placements.

Now You Know!

There are many differences between the courses, the Culinary Arts degree, and the certification program. Adding to it, the institution you choose to pursue your course with also plays a key role in shaping your future. Therefore, ensure that you understand the difference between the two before opting for either one. All the best!